


/rf^u 






[L. C. Childs & Son, Printers, Utica, N. Y. 



HAMILTON COLLEGE, u^^, 



MATTERS OF INTEREST IN CONNECTION WITH THE 
INSTITUTION WHICH HAVE OCCURRED SINCE THE 
LAST COMMENCEMENT— WHAT IS SAID OF DR. 
M. W. STRYKER, THE NEW PRESIDENT— A 
LETTER FROM PROF. NORTH— NEW PRO- 
FESSORS APPOINTED— THE TRUS- 
TEE MEETINGS. 

The pamphlet containing an account of the last commencement exercises at 
Hamilton College, and mailed to all the alumni, called out many gratifying 
acknowledgments. This second pamphlet is calculated to convey information of 
interest to all the alumni regarding happenings in connection with the institutions 
since July 5. So much is occurring nowadays that more than the anticipated 
number of pamphlets must be issued to keep up with the times. The college 
never had brighter prospects than those with which it enters upon this year's 
work. The alumni and friends of Hamilton are earnestly urged to have a share 
in advancing its welfare. 

It is requested that any item of interest to the college, change of address, names 
of young men preparing for college, suggestions, etc., be forwarded to Geo. E. 
Dunham, Daily Fress Office, Utica, N. Y., where they will be accorded attention 
promptly. The usefulness of these pamphlets will largely depend upon the inter- 
est taken in them by the alumni. 

Trustee Meeting. 

A meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College was held Thursday, August 25 
at Bagg's Hotel, Utica. There were present Charles C. Kingsley, P. V. Rogers, 
William M. White and Geo. E. Dunham, of Utica; Hon. Ellis H. Roberts and 
Dr. A. M. Brockway, of New York; Prof. Edward North and Dr. T. B. Hudson, 
of Clinton; Gilbert Mellison, of Oswego; Charles A. Hawley, of Seneca Palls; 
Horace B. Silliman, of Cohoes; Hon. Theodore M. Pomeroy, of Auburn; Talcott 
H. Camp, of Watertown, and Charles L. Stone, of Syracuse. 

The meeting was called to order by the chairman, and prayer offered by Rev. 
Dr. Hudson. Dr. North reported favorably, and P. H. Raisten was duly ap- 
pointed director of the new Soper Gymnasium. 

On motion. Prof. Samuel J. Sanders, of Cornell University, was elected Profes- 
sor of Physics. 

The report of the committee on nominations for president was received and 
read. On motion of Dr. Hudson, the board proceeded to a ballot, which resulted in. 



tte unanimous election of Rev. Dr. M. W. Stryker, of Chicago. Prof. North, H. 
B. Silliman and Charles L. Stone were appointed a committee to inform Dr. 
Stryker of his election. 

It was decided to provide for granting degrees for post-graduate study. 

Various other matters of interest and importance to the college were informally 
discussed. 

Thursday, September 15th, another meeting of the trustees was held at Bagg's 
Hotel, in Utica. There were present: Charles C. Kingsley, Hon. Wm. M. White. 
P. V. Rogers and Greorge E. Dunham, of Utica; Dr. L. M. Miller, of Ogdens- 
bnrg; Grilbert Mollison, of Oswego; Prof. Edward North and Dr. ThomasB. Hud- 
son, of Clinton; Dr. Horace B. Silliman, of Cohoes; Dr. A. M. Brockway, of New 
York; Dr. George B. Spauldmg, of Syracuse; Hon. Theodore M. Pomeroy, of 
Auburn, and Charles L. Stone, of Clinton. After the roll was called prayer was 
offered by Dr. Spaulding. 

Dr. North made the following report regarding college affairs. 

The election of Prof. Samuel J. Saunders, a graduate of Toronto University, to 
the chair of Physics has been accepted, and his work will begin at the opening of 
the fall term. He will bring a new attraction, as well lor the classical course as 
for the Latin scientific course, by giving instruction tor three terms in each col- 
lege year. A generous friend of the College has made a donation of a thousand 
dollars for repairing and recruiting the apparatus in the physical laboratory. 

By the election of Melville G. Dodge to be Assistant Professor of Chemistry and 
Librarian, prof. Morrill is provided with competent help in the chemical labora- 
lory, and the work of cataloguing the library will be pushed to an early comple- 
tion, with the aid of Walter T. Couper, a recent graduate of the highest rank in 
scholarship, whose time will be wholly given to duties in the librdry. Wra. P. 
Shepard, another recent graduate of highest rank in scholarship, has been appoini- 
f d curator of the Cabinet of Natural History. Among his first duties will be the 
mounting of 300 specimens of .Japanese butterflies and moths, recently presented 
by Rev. Henry Loomis, of Yokohama, a graduate of the college in 1866. He will 
also undertake the work of destroying the injurious insects in the entomological 
collections presented by Judge Thomas Barlow, of Canastota. 

The appointment of F. H. Ralsten to be curator of the Soper Gymnasium is 
substantial evidence that the college is to be provided with the best facilities for 
sending out graduates sound in body as well as sound in mind and character. 

Rev. Wm. H. Squires will be retained as Professor of Metaphysics and instructor 
in Hebrew. Last year he fully satisfied the claims of this position, doing his diffi- 
cult work with admirable thoroughness, and gaining the highest esteem of his 
associates in the faculty. 

The next term opens September 22. 

Acting President North then presented a letter irom Dr. M. W. Stryker, of 
Chicago, accepting the election as President of Hamilton College. The following 
is a liberal extract from that letter: 

Chicago, III., Sept. 13. 1892. 
To Dr. Horace B. Silliman, Dr. Edward North and Chas. L. IStone, Esq., Com- 
mittee : 

Very Dear Sirs — After this long delay, as unwelcome and perplexing to myself 
as to you, I am length able to give my reply. 

The question which the unexpected action of the Board of Trustees forced upon 
my more deliberate thought has been weighed under the best care I could give. 

I am now ready to say that with my present understanding 1 can answer you 
with a firm and hopeful Yes. 

It is a charge that I never sought or imagined, and I have measured as best I 
could both its high demands and my own obvious inadequacy at many points to 
meet them. 

But the responsibility of this you have chosen to assume, and we must, if we go 
forward together, divide the dangers and the more resolutely undertake to master 
the difficulties. 

Of your good will and of that of all the board, as well as of the faculty. 1 am 
•fully assured. 

A large inflow of correspondence from many strong men leads me to hope that 
the constituency of the college can be rallied to sustain this action and to uphold 

BY TRANSFER 

,Y 3 1910 






a careful and hopeful and ongoing administration. I put myself then in your 
loyal hands, and pray God to bless this act, and to overrule my deficiencies for 
the far-reaching good of this noble and historic trust. May we be guided by 
heavenly hands in our common task. 

Convey my respects to the Board of Trust, and believe me, with a full heart and 
a humble purpose, to do all that 1 can for dear old Hamilton. 

Yours most sincerely, 

M. WOOLSEY STRYKEK. 

On motion of Dr. Silliman, the following resolution was unanimously adopted: 

Resolved, That the trustees of Hamilton College welcome most heartily and 
gratefully Dr. Stryker's acceptance of his election to the presidency, and 
pledge our hearty and earnest efforts to provide all needed funds for making his 
administration a brilliant chapter of progress and prosperity in the history of 
Hamilton College. 

On motion, the following resolution was unanimously adopted: 

Resolved, That the thanks of the trustees are tendered to Rev. Henry Loomis, 
of Yokohama, for his valuable donations to the cabinet of Natural History, and to 
Rev. E. P. Powell, of College Hill, and other alumni and friends of the college, 
for their kindly aid in meeting the financial needs of the institution. 

The executive committee was empowered to make the necessary preparations for 
the inauguration of President Stryker, which will probably occur before or about 
the middle of November. It is also suggested that on the evening of the in- 
augural ceremonies the Central New York Association of Hamilton Alumni hold 
their annual banquet in Utica. Very many graduates are expected to be present 
at the inauguration, and the banquet in the evening will be a fitting close for what 
will be one«of the happiest days in Hamilton's history. 

After an informal discussion of various matters of interest, and those especially 
•connected with the acceptarpce of Dr. Stryker, the meeting adjourned. 

All the trustees present expressed themselves delighted that their trouble was at 
an end, and the vacant presidency about to be filled. It was frequently and earn. 
estly said that of all the candidates mentioned, none possessed so many desirable 
qualities and such eminent fitness for the place as Dr. Stryker. 

Memorials. 

At the September meeting memorials were presented by Prof. North for Hon. 
Theo. W. Dwight, and by Dr. L. M. Miller, of Ogdensburg, for Rev. Dr. Kendalf, 
both of the deceased having been members of the Board of Trustees. The full list 
of the memorials follows : 

HON. THEO. W. D WIGHT, LL D. 

BY PROF. EDWARD NORTH. 

Fifty-six years ago Theodore William Dwight, then a boy of fourteen, was prepar- 
ing for college in the Clinton Grrammar School, under the instruction of Rev. Salmon 
:Strong. Apparently most of his studying was done at his home just over the way. 
His school tasks were an easy pastime. His chief occupation in the brick Academy 
seemed to be to serve as dictionary, grammar and translator for less gifted lads 
who were also preparing for college. In 1837, at the age of fifteen, he became a So- 
phomore, and was graduated in 1840 with the Latin salutatory. There was good tim- 
ber for the most heroic work of church and State in the class of 1840. The college 
found four trustees in the class of 1840, and Theodore W. Dwight was one of them. 
Our State and nation found two Supreme Judges in the class of 1840, and Theo- 
dore W. Dwight was one of them. He was also a member of the Constitutional 
Committee of 1867. He also served the State as an active member of the " Com- 
mittee of Seventy," after the crimes of Tweed were exposed. He was long a mem- 
ber of the State Board of Charities, and for many years was President of the New 
York Prison Association. He received the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws 
from Rutgers College in 1859, and from Columbia College in 1860. There is some- 
thing of pathos in the fact that he received the degree of Doctor of Laws from 
Yale College on the day of his death. 



J 



But the greatest glory of his 70 years was his unparalleled success as a teacher. 
Soon after graduation he began his work as a teacher in the Utica Academy. In 
1842 he was called to a tutorship in Hamilton College, and for four years gave- 
instruction in Greek, Latin and German. It was to him a labor of love that 
brought him in large measure the love of his classes. When the Maynard chair of 
Law, History and Political Economy became vacant in 1846, his promotion to this 
important professorship fired and fixed the ruling ambition of his life. One of the 
secrets of his wonderful success as a teacher was the exclusion of text books from 
the class room. Cinder this method the mischief of " skinning ahead '' was im- 
possible, and the class room was made an honest field of intellectual athletism. 
The student's only hope of success was in making thorough preparation for each 
day's exercise. And what Prof. Dwight required of his students he made an ob- 
ligation on himself. One day he sent dismay among the seniors by announcing 
that their next exercise would be to recite the Constitution of the United States- 
from memory. They declared it an imposition, but when he appeared before 
them without a copy of the Constitution, and made it clear that he only required 
of them what he required of himself, they gave him hearty commenda- 
tion. He believed in the advantage of frequent reviews. When the- 
day's advance work was ended, he had the habit of calling upon some 
one of the class to take^ up the topic of a previous chapter, and give 
a full abstract of its contents and its relations to other chapters. These off- 
hand reviews might reach back over the exercises of a week or a month. In this 
way his students were trained by familiar conversational exercises to use their ac- 
quisitions with freedom, promptness and logical force. Prof. Dwight was a genu- 
ine Socrates to his students. He was with them on the common ground of per- 
sonal sympathy and intimate friendship. He individualized himself to each of his 
students, helping each one to overcome any peculiar embarassment or difficulty, 
and following each one with his helpful recognition through his aftergraduate 
life. 

The removal of Prof. Dwight in 1858 to the Columbia College Law School intro- 
duced him to a larger field for the exercise of his remarkable gifts. He began his 
work in New York solitary and alone. Almost a stranger in its vast population, 
he entered upon what was regarded by his friends as a doubtful experiment. With 
no attractive outfit of rooms, or books, or assistants, in Socratic simplicity, he be- 
gan with thirty-five students on bare benches in a cramped corner of the Histori- 
cal Society Building on Second Avenue and Eleventh streets. Outgrowing this 
makeshift lodgment, the Law School was soon removed to 37 Lafayette Place, 
next to 8 Great Jones street, and finally to the buildings of Columbia College on 
East Forty-ninth street. 

Prof. George Chase states that the entire number of law students in the thirty- 
three classes from 1858 to 1891 exceeded 10,000, and that among the lawyers now 
in New York city fully one-third have been members of this law school. In the 
beautiful tribute to Prof. Dwight on his resignation of the Wardenship in 1891, 
one of his students testifies that there was not a soul among his thousands of 
students whom Prof. Dwight failed to impress with the permanent feeling that he 
was a genuine friend as well as a skillful, patient and thorough teacher. His 
home in Clinton is enriched with costly treasures of art and literature that express 
the generous enthusiasm and love of his students. 

Believers in the doctrine of heredity will find ample support for their faith in 
the character and intellectual endowments of Prof. Dwight. He seldom made any 
reference to his distinguished ancestry, and never save in modest, unpretentious 
terms. Yet no one could know him in the class room, in a popular address, in his 
preparation for a legal argument, or even in offhand conversation, without recog- 
nizing a select share of the best traits of the best New England character and cul- 
ture. His robust and attractive personality, his life-long passion for linguistic 
studies, his ready conversational resources of anecdote humor and pertinent in- 
formation, his intense hatred of all forms of deception and fraud, his earnest re- 
ligious convictions, were striking survivals of similar ancestral characteristics in 
the Strongs, Woolseys and Edwardses, the Hookers, Pierponts and Woodbridges 
of earlier generations. 

Prof. Dwight was one of the first four trustees who were elected in 1875 to rep- 
resent the alumni of Hamilton College, under the amendment of its charter. He 
was afterwards elected a permanent trustee. For seventeen years his treasures of legal 
lore, his practical experiences in teaching, his wide acquaintance with prominent 
leaders in educational work, his loyal enthusiasm, have been freely used for pro- 
moting the growth and improvement of the college. His last appearance with this 



Board of Trustees, at their special meeting, September 3, 1891, was made memor 
ahle by an eloquent address, that would have received hearty applause in our Na 
tional Senate. 

Wednesday forenoon, June 3, while the trustees were holding their annual meet- 
ing in the chapel of the Stone Church in Clinton, the tidings of Prof. Dwight's 
death were received with expressions of keenest sorrow, and the following minute 
was adopted: 

The trustees of Hamilton College, now in session, are informed of the death of 
our associate and friend, Hon. Tneo. W. Dvvight, LL. D. 

We are filled with the most profound sorrow and regret. For fifty- two years 
he has been a faithful alumnus and devoted friend of the college. 

As Maynard Professor of Law, he raised the law department to a high standard 
of excellence and reputation. During seventeen years in the Board of Trustees he 
has brought to the service of the college large learning, sound judgment, thorough 
familiarity with affairs and effective attention to duty. He has endeared himself 
to his associates in the Board of Trust, in the faculty and among the alumni. By 
his life and achievements in other tields he has done high honor to the institution. 
We have lost a friend. The college has lost one of the chief pillars of its strength. 
All friends of Himilton will join in sorrow and in honor of the memory of Theo. 
W. i; wights 

Resolved, That a committee, of which the acting President, Dr. Edward North, 
shall be Chairman, be appointed to prepare and present to the board and to the 
alumni a suitable memorial. 

REV. HENRY KENTDALL, D. D. 

BY REV. L. MERRILL MILLER, D. D. 

• Hon. William Dexter Walcott, for many years a prominent trustee of Hamilton 
College and the founder of one of its professorships, died May 1, 1890. The 
next month Dr. Jamas Boylan Shaw, another trustee, passed away. Since that 
time six other members of this board have died, viz.: President Darling, Gen. 
Daniel P. Wood, Gen. Samuel S. Ellsworth, Hon. John Jay Knox, Hon. Theodore 
W. Dwight, and on Saturday last, September 10, Rev. Dr. Henry Kendall. Sel- 
dom does such a Board of Trust have to record the loss of so large a number of 
eminently useful men and to whom the just tribute is given, they served the col- 
lege entrusted to their care with fidelity, wisdom and love. Conspicuous among 
these was Dr. Kendall, who for more than twentv vears found time amid pressing 
public duties to show his desire and willing work for his alma mater. Favored 
with a strong constitution and good health, and the influence of reigning grace, 
his seventy-seven years of life have left strong proofs of sterling character and use- 
fulness. Born at Volney, educated in Hamilton College and Auburn Seminary, 
married not far away, he served as pastor four years at Verona, ten years at 
East Bloomfield and three years at Pittsburg. East Bloomfield was his home re- 
treat whenever respite from labor came. There he buried his three children, and 
still there Mrs. Kendall remains. Strongly wedded to Central New York as a 
citizen, he was interested always for the college on the hill and for Auburn Semi- 
nary. When the roll of the Class of '40 was called in the recitation room, Kendall, 
Knox and Miller answered side by side, so that we had the opportunity to know 
Dr. Kendall as a constant, conscientious and ready student. Genial, conservative 
and decisive in his manners, he did nothing to antagonize those who differed from 
him, and by a frank and manly bearing maintained pleasant relations with the 
students as well as the faculty. These qualities he carried with him into his pub- 
lic life, and they guided him to success. But it was as a leading 
Secretary of the Board of Home Missions of the Presbyterian 
Church that he won his laurels as a great and good workman, in 
effective service throughout the broad domain of its continually enlarging borders, 
and occupping with general commendation the important office for more than 
thirty-one years. Through multiplied travels from ocean to ocean, and both North 
and South, he was intimately acquainted with the needs and progress of evan- 
gelical work covering our republic. In close accord and heart-beat with the many 
hundred home missionaries on the one hand, and on the other with the societies 
and churches which furnished the means of aid, Dr. Kendall was universally 
acknowledged as leader and guide. All who knew him will bear testimony to his 
great love for the work in which he not only sought the Master's will, but as a 
patriot forecasted his country's weal, and as a Christian the wants of thousands of 
his countrymen perishing for lack of vision. An incident in the last General 



Assembly, held at Portland, Oregon, illustrates the estimate in which he was held 
by the church. When Rev. Charles F. Goss voiced the feeling respecting hira and 
his work as the "lion-hearted, the tender-hearted, the loving-hearted Henry Ken- 
dall," a name that "stands for the broadest philanthropy, the purest Christianity, 
and the deepest consecration," the large audience, in an outburst of sympathy, re- 
sponded with heartiest applause. In 1884 he was sent to the Belfast Council of 
Reformed Churches to represent his denomination as well qualified in the largest 
sense, to care for its interests and declare its faith, usages and manifold charities. 
When we call to mind his manly presence in the meetings of our Board of Trust, 
and his active interest in its affairs, and his wise and ready counsels, we can under- 
stand why Auburn Seminary, the Western University and the Western Reserve 
College should elect him to the same relations in their institutions. His depart- 
ure from us will add another starred name to the roll of notable and worthy men 
who have served the college wisely and well, and whom its alumni will cherish in 
living and grateful remembrance. 

PRESIDENT M. W. STRYKER. 

Rev. Dr. Melancthon Woolsey Stryker was born in Vernon, N. Y.. January 7, 
1851, while his father, Rev. Isaac P. Stryker, was pastor of the Presbyterian 
Church in that village. His mother, a woman of rare intellectual and social giftj^, 
was a daughter of the late Commodore Melancthon Woolsey, of the United States 
Navy. Dr. Stryker was graduated from Hamilton College in 1872, and from 
Auburn Theological Seminary in 1876. For one year, under Secretary R. R. Mc- 
Burney, of the Y. M. C. A. in New York city, he held the position of assistant 
secretary, and in this way gained unusual skill, tact and sympathy in dealing 
with young men at " the parting of the paths." Dr. Stryker's first pastorate was 
for three years in Auburn ; his second pastorate was for five years in Ithaca ; his 
third for two years in Holyoke, Mass. In 1885 he was called to the pastorate of 
the Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago, as the successor of Dr. Herrick John- 
son. This church has a msmbership of over 600. and its benevolent gifts exceed 
$30,000 annually. In theology, Dr. Stryker is a conservative, with earnest hope 
for a more perfect unity of evangelical Christendom, and to this end he favors a^ 
briefer and more irenic creed, as supplementary to the Westminster standard. 

As a preacher he is earnest, untrammeled hy notes, and fertile in new views of 
familiar truth. He is fond of musical and literary studies, which give brightness 
and charm to his evangelical spirit, without weakening the clearness and vigor of 
his sermons. He holds high rank as a poet and hymnologist. His poem before 
the Society of Hamilton Alumni would compare favorably with the best anniver- 
sary efforts of Holmes and Lowell. He is the author of a number of popular 
hymnals: " The Alleluia," 18S0: "Church Praise Book," 1881; " Christian Cho- 
rals," 1884; "Church Song," 1889; " Choral Song," 1881. " The Song of Miriam 
and Other Hymns and Versss," was published in 1888. Dr. Stryker has the 
youthful vigor, the social, religious and intellectual qualities, the personal mag- 
netism, the practical knowledge of affairs, the enviable reputation, the large 
wealth of resources as a preacher, popular orator and writer that give promise of 
brilliant success as a college president. He is tenderly and loyally attached to his 
mother college. Among the classmates who will welcome his call to the Presi- 
dency are Prof. A. C Benedict, of Houghton Seminary, Prof. H. C. G. Brandt, of 
Hamilton College, Rev. Prof. Arthur S. Hoyt, of Auburn Seminary, Prof. Brainard 
G. Smith, of Cornell University. 

Newspaper Coiniiient. 

Dr. Stryker's election as President of Hamilton College was made the occasion 
of very general and very favorable newspaper comment. The Chicago Journal of 
September 16, said: 

Dr. Stryker, who now asks to be relieved of the charge of the Fourth Presbyte- 
rian Church, has been pastor of that congregation for more than seven years, being 
called there eight years ago this fail. He assumed the charge in April, 1885. His 
eloquence and his zeal in the work have made him beloved of his whole congrega- 
tion, who now regret his departure, though, it is considered, to a field where his 
usefulness will have a wider scope. 

Dr. Stryker's name has oeen before the Board of Trustees of Hamilton College 
in connection with the presidency for some time, but it was not until last month 
that direct overtures were made to him, and he was finally called in the face of his 



declared iuability to consider such an offer. The actual unanimity of the board 
in proffering the position, together with the faculty, the strong pressure, and clear 
good-will of great numbers of the alumni, his own regard for his alma miter, and 
a sense of the possibilities of such a position, have conquered his reluctance. 

The Chicago Tribune in the course of a long article said: 

A member of the Fourth Church and an intimate friend of Dr. Stryker's family, 
said: " I hope for the sake of our church that Dr. Stryker will not accept the call 
to Hamilton College, but I know how dear he holds that institution, and if he 
thinks that it is his duty to go there — that the call is something more than a 
worldly one — he will go and temporal consideration will have no weight." 

Dr. Stryker is known as a preacher of forcible and scholarly sermons. He has 
written a number of hymns, issued a collection of Sunday school songs, and is the 
author of a volume of religious poems called " The Songs of Miriam." 

The Fourth Church has prospered greatly under his pastorate. The contribu- 
tions for mission work at home and abroad have increased largely and the mission- 
ary efforts of the members have been wisely directed. Dr. Stryker helped in the 
building up of the Italian Mission, and the Howe Street Mission of the Fourth 
Church has prospered beyond expectation. Through his efforts the sittings of the 
Fourth Church were made free at night, with the result of bringing into the serv- 
ices people that had not before been reached. The Fourth Church pays Dr. 
Stryker $8,000 a year. 

John H. Cuningham, "66, managing editor of the Utica Herald, said in that paper 
September 16: 

The alumni and friends of Hamilton College are to b3 congratulated. Rev. 
Dr. M. W. Stryker, of Chicago, accepts the office of president tendered him some 
three weeks ago. That office, vacant since the death of Dr. Darling in April, 
1891, has now been filled in a manner which will earn for the trustees the thanks 
of every friend of the college. Hamilton, for the first time in her history, has 
called one of her sons to the presidency. 

Dr. Stryker, a graduate in the class of '72, knows the past of his alma mater 
and her present needs. He will enter upon the duties of his office having the full 
confidence of the alumni, and his past career in dealing with men is an earnest of 
success in his relation to that most important body, the undergraduates of the col- 
lege. 

Dr. Stryker is to be congratulated. In accepting the proffered position it tee- 
comes necessary for him to renounce the pastorship of one of the largest Presbyte- 
rian churches in Chicago and in this country, and he will be compelled to sever 
many dear ties and to forego many cherished ambitions. But he will give his life 
to the service of his alma mater, and he enters upon a work glorious in its possi- 
bilities. 

The Chicago Inter-Ocean said editorially : 

The report of a few days ago, that the Rev. Dr. Stryker, pastor of the Fourth 
Presbyterian Church of this city, had decided not to accept the call to the presi- 
dency of Hamilton College, was not only without foundation, but has proved to 
be just the opposite of true. It was based on an interview which was an unmit- 
igated fake, having no basis of genuine information. After giving the matter 
careful consideration, Dr. Stryker has accepted the call. His church was united 
and earnest in urging him to remain with them. During his seven years' pastor- 
ate it has been greatly prosperous and highly useful. Dr. Stryker is an eloquent 
preacher and a devoted pastor. His removal will be a serious loss to the pulpit of 
Chicago. 

Hamilton College is one of the best known institutions of higher education in 
the country. It has some three thousand living alumni, many of them occupying 
places of eminence in all the professions. Judge Anthony, Franklin H. Head, the 
late Daniel Shepard, the Rev. Dr. William Alvin Bartlett, are among the Hamil- 
tonians well known in Chicago. It has always been notable for the attention 
given to rhetoric and oratory, and consequently for the good English and elo- 
quence of its graduates. As the president of the college is also the pastor of the 
college church, Dr. Stryker will not be retiring from the pulpit, albeit entering 
upon a radically new field of labor. Hamilton is to be congratulated upon its 
good fortune. It may be added that Dr. Stryker will be the first alumnus chosen 
to the presidency. There have been eight presidents before him, the longest term 
being that of the Rev, Simeon North, D. D., LL. D., whose presidency extended 
from 1839 to 1857. The new president is a comparatively young man, and has in 



him the promise of many years of great usefulness. He will be all the better pre- 
pared to hold the helm of a large college from having spent the seven best years 
of his life in Chicago, and become a typical Chicagoan of the first grade. 

The Utiea Daily Press of September 16, said editorially: 

It is great cause for congratulation that Dr. M. W. Stryker, of Chicago, has at 
length decided to accept the presidency of Hamilton College. When the subject 
was first mentioned to him he feared it would be impossible for him to accede to 
the wishes of the trustees and become the executive head of the institution. He 
frankly said that he feared it would be unwise to use his name in that connection, 
because of the improbability of his favorable consideration of the proffered honor. 
No clergyman could be more happily located than Dr. Stryker is in his Chicago 
church. Beside being the recipient of a large salary, larger indeed by some 
thousands of dollars than that offered at Hamilton he is surrounded by loyal and 
admiring friends who find it a pleasure to contribute to his comfort and who cor- 
dially support him in all his efforts for the church. A recognized leader of re- 
ligious thought in a great city, a speaker and writer whose services are much 
sought and highly prized, his acceptance of the call to Hamilton is accompanied 
by not a little which many would regard as a sacriSce. But Mr. Stryker is clearly 
a man who believes in doing his duty, and when once convinced what his duty i-i, 
all other considerations are lost sight of in his willingness to undertake it. The 
motive which actuates him in entering upon the important office of the presidency 
are the most commendable which can actuate any man. His decision is of itself 
an index to the charicter of Hamilton's new President. The college, its alumni 
and its friends are to b3 congratulated upon Dr. Stryker's acceptance, made public 
yesterday. He is a man of remarkable ai-iility as a student, a writer and a preacher. 
He po!^S3sses in a large degree the qualities and characteristics which go to make 
up a successful President of any educational institution. He is an alumnus of 
Hamilton and loves his alma mater and will serve it loyally. He has the con- 
fidence and esteem not only of the denomination to which he belongs, but as well 
of all the Christian church. He has a force of character which will make itself 
felt in the affairs of the college and the community where it is located. The ac- 
ceptance of Dr. Stryker marks a new era of prosperity for the college on the hill. 
It brings a new life, new zeal, new enthusiasm, and the alumni and friends of the 
college, scattered all over this United States, hail his coming with sincere con- 
gratulations and all will join with him in the effort to add new successes to the in- 
stitution they love so well. 

The New Professor ol Physics. 

The appointment of Prof. Samuel J. Saunders, of Cornell University, makes it 
certain that the chair of Physics in Hamilton College will be filled by an expert 
thoroughly trained for his chosen work, and thoroughly tested in the rare gift of 
inspiring students with his own enthusiasm for the study of physical science. 
Prof. Saunders is a graduate of Toronto University, where his high rank in classics 
and mathematics was followed by a post-graduate fellowship in physics. His 
three years of successful service as Assistant Professor of Physics under Prof. 
Nichols, of Cornell University, have broadened his experience and made him 
familiar with the best methods of laboratory practice and the latest improvements 
in physical apparatus. With the accession of Prof. Saunders, the Latin Scientific 
course will be complete and attractive to young men who prefer that line of under- 
graduate studies as candidates for the degree of B, S. 

Director of the Soper Gyniiiasium. 

At the last annual meeting of the Hamilton alumni they resolved to raise a 
fund for the salary of the Soper Gymasium, and Prof. Oren Root was appointed 
their agent for this purpose. His success is so nearly complete that the trustees, 
at yesterday's meeting, appointed P. H. R listen to the office of director and in- 
structor. This appointment will give satisfaction to the students. They have 
already been trained by Mr. Ralston for athletic contests and they know his worth 
both as a man of unblemished character and a skillful gymnast. Special thanks 
are due to Prof. Root for his activity in securing this good result. 



An Assistant in the Rhetorical Department. 

A new addition to the faculty has been made by the appointment of Delos De- 
Wolf Smyth as Assistant Professor of Rhetoric and Elocution. Since his gradu- 
ation in 1890, Prof. Smyth has followed his chosea liaes of special study both in 
G-ermany and in Harvard University. His brilliant successes ia undergraduate 
work give prestige and the highest promise to the new duty which he now under- 
takes in connection with Prof. ScoUard's department. 

Additions to Memorial Hall. 

Visitors to Memorial Hall, in the college library, will find there reminders of 
what the college has recently suffered in the death of members of the faculty. 
Portraits of Rev. Dr. Henry Darling, the eighth president, and Dr. Ambrose P. 
Kelsey, the first occupant of the Stone professorship, are examples of the best 
work of M. B. Ray, of Utica. 

The Silliman Spoon. 

As a pleasant memorial of college days, recent graduates heartily welcome the 
souvenir spoon, which carries an accurate view of the new Y. M. C. A. building, 
as it stands at the southern entrance to the campus. A noble Christian thought 
IS beautifully expressed in this attractive building. Toe Silliman spDon is sold by 
William S. Taylor & Son. 

A New Scholarship. 

The latest addition to the twenty-five permanent scholarships of the college is 
that of the Geneva Presbytery, which worthily rewards the perseverence of Rev. J. 
Wilford Jacks, of Romulus, and others who have aided him in this undertaking. 
The occupant of this scholarship will be named by the Geneva Presbytery, one of 
the smallest of the thirty presbyteries in the Synod of New York. It has furnished 
a good example of what might be done for higher education, if other presbyteries 
were equally mindful of their debt to the college that gives to the Synod of New 
York more than a thousand dollars annually by the remission of bills to its candi- 
dates for the ministry. For a special encouragement, a generous friend of the 
college has promised to add $500 to any scholarship of $1,000 that is endowed by 
one of the presbyteries of New York. 

Work for Hamilton Graduates. 

The following appointments for graduates of Hamilton College have been recent- 
ly made in various branches of educational work: Rev. Charles K. Hoyt, '70, 
President of Oswego College for Young Ladies, Oswego, Kan. ; Rev. Dr. Edward 
C. Ray, '70, Secretary of Presbyterian Board of Aid for Colleges, Chicago; Rev. 
J. Arthur Jones, '73, Professor of Sacred Rhetoric in Colgate Theological Semi- 
nary; Dr. Leigh R. Hunt, '74. Superintendent of Schools in Corning; Rev. John 
G. Blue, '77, Financial Agent of Carroll College, Waukesha, Wis. ; Prof. George 
■Griffith, '77, Superintendent of Schools in Utica; Franklm A. Spencer, '82, Pro- 
fessor of Mathematics in Rugby Academy, St. Louis, Mo.; Prof. Edward N. Jones, 
'83, Principal of Plattsburg State Normal School; William C. Kruse, '85, Princi- 
pal of Congregational College, Ridgeville, Ind. ; James B. Hastings, Principal of 
Stamford Seminary; William T. Ormiston, Professor of Chemistry in Robert Col- 
lege, Constantinople ; Frank H. Robson, '87, Master of Languages in Pingry 
Institute, Elizabeth, N. J.; Prank S. Tisdale, '88, Principal of Union School, 
Orange, N. J. ; Walter S. Knowlson, '89, Principal of Sherburne Union School ; 
James D. Rogers, '89, Greek Fellowship in Columbia College; Charles fl. Warfidd, 



10 

'89, Principal of Boouville Union School; George H. Minor, Professor of Mathe- 
matics in Northwestern University, Evanston, 111.; Calvin S. Lewis, Professor Elo- 
cution in Orchard Lake Institute, Michigan; Ransom H. Snyder, '91, Principal of 
Holland Patent Academy. 

The following are all graduates in the Class of '92: George S. Budd, Assistant 
Secretary in the Y. M. C. A. of New York city; Fred H. Davis, teacher in Lyons 
Union School; Carl H. Dudley, Professor of Greek and German in Pritchett Insti- 
tute, Glasgow, Mo.; Martin C. Findlay and Henry S. Verrill, Professors in Park 
College, Mo. ; Robert B. Marvin, Professor in Carthage College, Mo. ; Frank W. 
Tilden, Professor in Greek and German in Carroll College, Wis. ; Frederick W. 
Welsh, Instructor in Preparatory School of Rutgers College, N. J.; Charles W- 
Yeoman, Professor of Latin and Greek m Delaware Institute, Franklin. 

The Utica Observer said : 

Best of all. Rev. Dr. Stryker is called to the Presidency, and accepts. The can- 
vass was a careful one, and it is felt by all classes of people that exactly the right 
man has been called. He is notable for his progressive views, his breadth of pur- 
pose, and his fine, wholesome manhood. He accepts with the distinct avowal that 
Hamilton must go right on broadening out. The Alumni Committee for laying 
the affairs of the College before its friends is supplemented by a Committee of the 
Trustees with a similar purpose. It is purposed to endow four professorships as 
soon as possible— one of physics, one of metaphysics, one of biology, and one of 
history and civic institutions. A physical laboratory is also on the programme 
and enlarged resources for the library and water works. 

Opening the Term. 

The Utica Daily Press, September 22, said : 

The fall terra at Hamilton College opened yesterday. All the old students are 
back and there are forty-five enrolled in the Class of '96. The faculty were in 
their accustomed places, with the exception of Dr. Stryker. The following letter 
A\as read by Dr. North from Dr. Stryker and was received with hearty enthusiasm ; 

28 Walton Place, Chicago, ] 

Sept. 19, 1892. f 

Dr. Edward North : 

3Iy Dear Frie7id — Now that it is done, my heart and thought turn eagerly to 
the new labor and fellowships. As I plan to be on the hill for a day or two of 
next week, and shall then be able to say my greetings in person, 1 will not now do 
more than give to the whole body of students my hearty salutations. 

It is a regret to me that 1 could not be present at the opening of the term, and 
that still a few weeks must pass before 1 can undertake my duties with you. But 
there will be no delaying beyond the time absolutely needful to set all matters 
here in proper order and to leave the fewest possible unfinished remainders. 

Now at the outset 1 bespeak the good will of all the undergraduate men. May 
the year begin with energy and enthusiasm, and go on with loyalty to all the tasks- 
in which, faculty aud students together, we are to do our stubborn best to set 
Hamilton to the fore. 

May God's abundant blessing strengthen and crown our work ! 
With this message let me also give my most hearty regards to the faculty and 
students, and to you, Dr. North, my respectful and affectionate thanks. 

Sincerely and hopefullv yours, 

M. WOOLSEY STRYKER, 

President- elect. 

The accustomed row between the sophomore and freshmen classes took place- 
directly after chapel exercises. Neither side was victorious. In the wrestling 
matches the freshmen won the heavy and light weight contests, and the sopiio- 
mores the middle weight. The sophomores won the ICO yards dash and succeeded 
in getting a freshman to the well. The rows were hotly contested, but no one was 
injured. Everyone seemed good natured. An effort is being made to remove the 
most objectionable feature of the hazing system, viz., the interference by the 
sophomores with the personal liberty of freshmen. 



11 

Everything looks very bright for Hamilton now. There is a corps of fourteen 
professors, all men of ability and experience. The incoming class is a large and 
promising one, and the ranks of the other classes are all well filled. Encouraging 
letters have been received from many of the alumni, and it is expected that the 
college will be visited frequently by the alumni this fail. 

Utica Herald, September 23 : 

Dr. Stryker's letter by President North, read before the students at the 
opening of the collegiate term and year, yesterday, is surcharged with ardent in- 
terest in the institution over which he is to preside. It is admirably calculated to 
win the confidence and regard of the undergraduates, and will strengthen the 
satisfaction felt, by all friends of the college, with the election of Dr. Stryker to 
the presidency. 

Dr. Stryker will move to Clinton with his family during the early part of No- 
vember. 

The chapel exercises Wednesday morning, September 28, at Hamilton College, 
were attended by a more than usually large number of people and a more than 
usually large amount of interest. The attraction was that it had been announced 
President M. W. Stryker was to appear and make an informal address to the stu- 
dents. After the regulation opening exercises, conducted by A. Gr. Hopkins, the 
Professor said : 

This is a red letter day for the college. Prof. North, with his characteristic 
modesty, has devolved upon another the duties which properly belong to himself 
and ha? asked me not to introduce President Stryker to the members of the college, 
but simply to pave the way for his making some remarks. 

This will not be President Stryker's maiden speech in this chapel. He made his- 
maiden declamation here some twenty years ago, and though since then he has 
made many addresses, I doubt if he has ever made any which seemed to him quite 
so eloquent and profound and far reaching as that Freshman declamation which 
he delivered from this platform twenty years ago. He comes here no stranger. 
These scenes are as familiar to him as to any one of us. I doubt not that the 
echoes of that Freshman declamation are rolling about somewhere in the corners 
of this chapel, and if he should put his head in here some Wednesday or Saturday 
afternoon exercises, he might hear the identical declamation, or one about Sheri- 
dan's Ride, the Fall of Pemberton Mill, or the Erection of the Obelisk in the 
Square of Rome, or something equally prehistoric. Men may come and men may 
go, but the college declamation goes on forever. But I do not intend to make Dr. 
Stryker's speech for him, or to take from him the time which we all want him to 
use for himself. It is a very peculiar pleasure and privilege of the faculty and the 
college in general to introduce to the students President Stryker. [Applause.] 

As he introduced President Stryker and that gentleman rose to his feet, the 
chapel resounded with the hearty cheers of the students. When the applause had 
subsided Dr. Stryker said : 

It IS with great embarrassment that I have to respond to such a reception, for I 
am accustomed to speaking to companies of people that are more reserved in their 
demonstrations of satisfaction. AH the same I appreciate it very greatl7, and I 
know the welcome of your hands is from your hearts, and 1 thank you, Profes-sor 
Hopkins and Dr. North, and through you the others of the faculty and all of you, 
gentlemen, my friends. I come here tlriis morning in the simplest way, to do any- 
thing but make a declamation. 1 am free to say that Professor Hopkins' words 
touched a very deep chord in my heart. I have, since I came to this town, and it 
is all too long — I am ashamed to tell you how many years it is since I last was in 
the town of Kirkland— 1 have been somehow emancipated from the conditions of 
time. It seems to me I have lost my reckoning. I am like Washington Irving's 
man on the Catskills, waking up from a twenty years' sleep. As I came up the 
red shale walk this morning, it seemed to me that I could see the faces and touch 
the hands of those who were with me when I last came up those steps to answer 
the summons of the chapel bell. 

I am now here only to salute you in the simplest fashion, having no carefully 
prepared extempore remarks, and will speak to you, if I may, in the most conver- 



12 

sational way, and it is with feelings of gratitude that I feel my feet on this ground 
— gratitude not only for the sparing mercies of the great and good God, but grati- 
tude for that which flows in upon me, a feeling of my indebtedness, my never half 
appreciated indebtedness to what this dear old College Hill was to me in under- 
graduate days, and my indebtedness, unconscious, unwatehing, to what it has 
been to me all the years since I left it. i am thankful for that. It seems as if I 
were standing really almost a freshman here again, and 1 do not feel in my heart a 
day older than 1 did when 1 sat under that piJlar yonder and waited for Professor 
Upson to call me. It was not quite as Professor Ilopkins says, twenty years ago, 
but it was twenty-five years ago when first I was up here with knocking' knees de- 
termined to show the seniors of Hamilton College how to do it. [Laughter.] It 
is with great satisfaction that I am able to put myself in touch with those past 
days through the hands of some who then were here; it is a comfort to find Dr. 
North here, and Professor Hopkins and others dear to me in the faculty. It is a 
source of hope to me, and puts my feelings at once en rapport with the possibili- 
ties of the future. 

On the commencement stage twenty years ago I spoke on " Dreams," and I want 
to say that in all the romance, and there was a great deal of it, in all the romance 
of my college imaginings, I never dreamed of such a thing as that 1 should ever 
•stand to this college as I am now to stand. That was beyond the wildest vagaries 
of my boyhood. 

I am sure you will pardon me if I use the first personal pronoun this morning, if 
I speak of some of the things that have brought me to this place and some of the 
things that lie before us, because it shall be our endeavor to serve and stand to- 
gether, and all to lift the flag of the college higher if we can than it was ever lifted 
before. I would speak with frankness, and recognizing that you understand tbat 
as yet 1 have no special or technical preparation for the work to be done here. 
When Parepa Rosa was once asked how she came to marry Carl Rosa, she replied, 
"It was because he asked me." I should say it was because I was asked that 1 
had darel, I can almost say presumed, to accept this trust. But of course I 
could not be here if I had not "been asked, and so I am most glad to share the heavy 
end of the responsibility with those that did this deed. That I have dared to at- 
tempt to stand in this place is, first of all, because I love this college. My own 
occupations, my own course of life, my own special fitness, so far as I have any, 
are related to a different line of work. I do not feel these administrative labors 
are by any means contradictory to the work of the pastor and preacher, but it is 
different from it and my thoughts and plans lay all along that line. Chicago im- 
presses herself everywhere, and I love that city, but when carrying the question 
home in my own heart, and it was a very full heart, when weighing on the one 
side all the interests, the plans, the schemes and activities that claimed me in that 
western city, weighing against the untried possibilities here and the possibilities of 
mistake or regret, putting all these things together and trying earnestly to see the 
•end, I found, somehow, welling up in my heart a feeling that might come to one, 
who, after long years, sets his eyes on the old roof tree and quaffed the water from 
the old homestead well, and I never knew until I pulled at them how deep were 
the roots of my affection for this dear old Hamilton College. It was because I so 
loved the college I found it impossible to say no. And then the second thing was 
that I love young men. 1 love young men "because I myself yet claim to be one of 
them. I lo've college men. I have always said in my heart if God would ever put 
in my way an opportunity to do anything that would make a college man braver 
and truer in his task, to steady the steps of another that he might not make some 
of the mistakes that I made, I would be grateful to do that. And the third thing 
that controlled my judgment in this decision was that I should not be removed 
from the relation to men of minister and pastor. If another college had called me 
to such a place I could, within an hour, have said no. If it had been this college 
and 1 had not been able to continue in the chosen work of my life I should have 
said no. I would stand with you and with those to follow you in the relation of a 
Christian minister, of a personal friend, and whatever administrative and official 
duties may lie before me, the foundation of our common understanding shall be 
that, and so I claim your friendship and speak thus as I would speak if speaking 
to a group of young nien who, in a new church work, were to be my strong reli- 
ance. 

Many of these duties are remote from the analogies of church life, yet the sim- 
ple and cordial relation of a genuine minister to his church, to the young men of 
his church, may be ours here. May we realize something of that sincere and direct 
friendliness. I have heard that " when a man's talk is chiefly of his ancestry, the 



13 

best of that family is evidently underground."' And it is true that when one for- 
gets his ancestry he ousrhl to be underground. We can not lie down upon our 
traditions nor upon our forefathers, but we must not forget them. Our wealth of 
associations, of high names of large constituency, all the romance of our part is a 
goodly, a great heritage. Let us remember that we may hope and not walk back- 
ward into the twentieth century. We must do our work as our seniors did theirs. 

Apart from the kind assurances of trustees, faculty and alumni, I am thankful 
for your voice as students. The student life measures critically the actual present 
of any college, its dimensions, its hopes. If through all the classes, whatever else 
may divide, there runs this united spirit, we may set our good college name among 
the highest. May the spirit of the truest manliness guide you. In this may even 
the newest among you stand from the start as high honor men — specimens, sam- 
ples, of the work here done. There is no time of life more susceptible to frank, 
ingenuous pleas. My deepest heart answered as wax to a seal when I was twenty 
to straightforward words. It is to these deep chords I long to speak and know I 
shall not speak in vain. I pledge you all to stand with us of the faculty to a 
common task with a common purpose and mutual trust. At the foundation of 
all good work, if we do it, must lie the truth that " we are not our own." We be- 
long to our God, and must have Him to hold us to our duties and strengthen us to 
carry them through. The men who have gone out from this chapel and are 
working for the good of this college ask: "What classes have you? " " What 
are the students doing?" "What is the sentiment of manliness?" " What is 
the standard of honor? " And it is possible for the body of present students who 
now make up the classes to set such a pattern, to be such a splendid quartette of 
fidelity that the music shall roll over the land with the fame and honor of our 
Alma Mater. 

Now I will add this appendix to what I have said: I am not familiar with the 
views of the faculty of the college, and I do not know what steps have been taken 
in the matter. My plan is formulated in the most general way. I assume that 
either on the 12th or 21st of October there will be some recognition of the fact 
that there was a man named Columbus. I assume that the students will, with the 
assistance of the faculty, have something special for that day, do something that 
is patriotic, and some one else and I just put our heads together. There were 
some Aldermen debating how to have a wooden pavement, and one of them said:: 
" Gentlemen, all we have to do is to put our heads together and the thing is done." 
Frank S. Weigly, Class of '75, of Chicago, and I put our heads together, and I 
said: "Weigly, I am going down to that old hill, and I don't know whether 
those boys have a flag or not, and I will give a flag; if you will give a flagstaff as 
tall as you can and I will give a flag to fit." He agreed, and I hope on that day 
you will throw that flag as a specimen. Not only now but in all other years of the 
loyalty of Hamilton College to her country. I ask that each class appoint a man 
to act with Prof. Hopkins in selecting a proper place for the staff, and when it i& 
raised I will see that you have a flag. 

When he had finished there was again loud and long applause. When it had 
subsided Prof. Hopkins introduced Rev. J. G. Blue, who said: 

This is not the first time Prof. Hopkins has confused me. He has done it sev- 
eral times and in several languages. He has done it in the matter of college his- 
tory this morning. I understood Dr. Stryker graduated in the class of 1872, and 
it has puzzled me to understand how he could have delivered Freshman declama- 
tions twenty years ago, his Senior year. I see his head is not streaked with God's 
white warning of immortality, and I began to wonder if he had not discovered the 
secret of immortal youth. I see he is starting the right way in correcting any 
mistakes, and if this is a token of his success he will be successful as President. 
If I can find legs to stand on and lungs to speak with after my unusual morning 
exercise in climbing the old hill, which 1 have not done in twelve years, I will try 
to give a welcome on behalf of the Western alumni. 

In my new home in Waukesha it is my privilege to meet many people from the 
South. Some of these acquaintances have ripened into friendships which, I trust, 
will be enduring. The last Sunday I was at home, after the service, one of them 
invited me to the South in these words: Come to the South and we will give a roy- 
al welcome. Our home shall be your home, and so in behalf of the busy, earnest 
West, in the language of the warm-hearted South, we give you a royal welcome. 
I saw this royal welcome given you yesterday as we came off the train by the rep- 
resentatives of the faculty. I saw Prof Brandt with his face flushed with pride, 
welcome his classmate and give him a cordial hand grasp. When you come to 



14 

our annual banquet next January we will show you what kind of a welcome we 
can give Hamilton's new President. It is a great thing to come to Chicago for 
the college, for the eyes of the world are turned to that city, and now following 
you some of its reflected light will shine here. We welcome the new President 
with mingled love and pride. We love him for what he is and are proud of him 
for what he has done. 1 am sure his success in the past will be prophetic of his 
success in the future. We welcome you not only because of your ability to give, 
but for your Christian character. May God's blessings rest upon the college and 
iier new President. 

The students were then dismissed in class order and they stopped outside the 
.chapel door to give three rousing cheers for the new president and for his class. 
President Stryker lingered in the chapel for a few moments and held an informal 
reception, having a pleasant word for the score or more crowded around to extend 
their sincere congratulations and express their hearty wishes for his success. 

In the afternoon Prof. Brandt tendered a reception to Dr. Stryker at his hand- 
some home, " The Willows," on College Hill. The members of the faculty were 
present, and the following residents of Clinton who are interested in college 
affairs: Dr. Hudson, Rev. Chester Hawley, Prof. A. G. Benedict, E,ev. E. P. 
Powell, Gen. Smyth and Prof. Thomas E. Hayden. The presiding officers of the 
various college organizations were the members of the student body who were 
present. Dr. Stryker exchanged a few words with each of the students and made 
,a very pleasant impression upon all. Shortly after three o'clock refreshments 
were served by Caterer White, of Clinton. 

The guests and college boys who had the opportunity of meeting Dr. Stryker 
were alike very much pleased with the new president. 

The customary reception to the Freshman Class was tendered by the Y. M. C. 
A. in Silliman Hall last evening. The occasion was also a welcome to Dr. Stryker 
by the entire college. 

The reception room of the hall was well filled at 8 o'clock. Among those pres- 
ent were Professor and Mrs. Root and daughter. Miss Alie ; Professor and Mrs. 
Brandt; Rev. Charles Hawley and wife, and a number of young ladies from the 
Cottage Seminary; Professors Saunders and Hopkins, Dr, Stryker, and about 100 
students. 

After the Freshmen had been introduced to the other classmen, devotional and 
literary exercises were held in the prayer room. Clinton C. Brockway, president 
of the Y. M. C. A., presided. The programme consisted of devotional exercises, 
singing. Scripture reading and prayer, led by Dr. W. R. Terreti". 

The address of welcome was delivered by President Brockway, who said : 

"We have met here to extend a most cordial welcome to our already beloved 
President, Dr. Stryker. I think it is the feeling of the young men of this college 
and association, that we are very glad that you are to be among us. This morning 
we listened with a great deal of satisfaction that you loved young men, and that 
you would be as a pastor and Christian minister to" the students at Hamilton. We 
greet you as one who will work with us and for us. We greet you as one who, as 
a pastor, will instruct us and aid us. We can welcome you to a college where 
students are living onward and upward. The students come back to the college 
to uproot and cast down everything that is casting shadows on the college. You 
are coming at a time when the interests of the college are looking very bright. If 
you could have heard the expressions among some of us about the uplifting of the 
college with your aid and our assistance, you would have been very grateful. This 
is a time that we have looked forward to for many months and we are very grateful 
that we can greet you this evening as President-elect of Hamilton College." 

Mr. Brockway, in his remarks, voiced the sentiments of the entire body of stu- 
dents. 

David Roberts, '94, in behalf of the Junior Class, welcomed the incoming class in 
a neat speech, and in conclusion made a few remarks of welcome to Dr. Stryker. 

.Prof. Root was called on and responded happily and eloquently. "Th(! heart of 



15 

Or. Stryker was turned to Hamilton," said he, "because his steps were turned 
•hither, 1 remember how large hearted and whole-souled Dr. Stryker was as a col- 
lege boy." Prof. Root spoke of college associations in an eloquent ^and touching 
manner, and continued : "Not very long ago a graduate of Harvard and a promi- 
nent Utica lawyer, said there was something worth learning in Hamilton College, 
and that he also believed that there were more successful graduates of Hamilton, 
in proportion, than Harvard. 1 believe," said Prof. Root, " that it is partly be- 
cause there is so much heart culture in Hamilton." [Loud applause. J 

Dr. Stryker was greeted with great applause and spoke briefly, " 1 am thank- 
ful to go home with a heart very full," said he. "I shall come very far from be- 
ing a homesick man. I am more than convinced there is a work here to be done 
^nd I am glad to be here to share it. I had not thought of this as an honor, but 
as a trust; and 1 hope 1 don't fail to humbly appreciate the honor; but it is a 
trust, and every trust is a task. 1 am thankful that I am again to enter college. 
I think there is something in the romance of this college that is very great, and 
that it is true that Hamilton men have their hearts in the work. I hope the time 
\may never come when Hamilton men shall be afraid to stand up before men and 
say what they know. If you are a good man you are wanted, and if you are one 
of the best men you are wanted in one of the best places. I am thankful to stand 
in this room, and 1 am thankful for the experience I received down in New York 
in Y. M. C. A. work, even if my college course occupied five yearsjinstead ot four. 
I believe that the Y. M. C. A. has a great power for good. I thank you again 
very much for the many things which 1 have seen and heard— tokens of the great 
future of Hamilton College." 

After singing, refreshments were served in the reading room of the hall. The 
members of the committee having charge of the reception, Messrs. Burke, Os- 
trander and Seymour, were very successful in their efforts. 
The Interior says : 

" Rev. Dr. M. W. Stryker, of the Chicago Fourth, has accepted the presidency 
of Hamilton College. It is said that Dr. Stryker was in touch with all the denom- 
inational and general moral and religious interests of the city; but that we cannot 
.agree to. It is not his way to be in touch with anything of importance. He grabs 
it with both hands and pushes or pulls as the case may be; and yet he has the rare 
, faculty of doing highly effective work without obtruding his' personality. Dr. 
Stryker has been one of our very best men for general interests, and his devotion 
to the honor and reputation of the Fourth Church has even been regarded as ex- 
treme. It is never himself, but his cause, that appears in the foreground. It will 
be so in his new undertaking. The public will not hear much of Dr. Stryker, but 
they will see that some new and potent element has entered into the forces of Ham- 
ilton College, and is pushing it with remarkable energy and success to higher and 
broader results. Underlying his brilhance there is a sort of very resolute manli- 
ness, and any quantity of the solidest common sense. 

" We do not know whether Hamilton College is to be congratulated on the com- 
ing presidency of Dr. Stryker, of Chicago." It depends on what that college de- 
sires. If it wants a good, easy, quiet jog-trot of a time, pointing complacently, as 
we have seen it do, to its eminently respectable catalogue of alumni, and resting 
on its acquisitions of honor and property, it has selected the wrong man. But he 
will not rush them. His energy is not in the line of aerial disturbance." 



CLASS SECRETARIES. 



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1818. Rev. Ebenezer H, Snoavden, , .Kingston, Pa. 

1820. Dr. Philip TenEyck, 64 Lancaster street, Albany. 

1821. Myron Adams, 25 S. Union street, Rochester, 

1822. Rev. Homer Wheaton Lithgow, N. Y.- 

1826. Hon. Austin Smith, Westfield. 

1827. Rev. Albert Worthington, Ambler, Montgomery Co., Pa. 

1828. Rev. Leicester A. Sawyer, Whitesboro. 

1831. Hon. John Cochrane, Box 250, New York City, 

1832. Dr. Waite W. Brewster, Austinburgh, 0. 

1833. Thomas W. Seward, Gardner Block, Utica. 

1834. Rev. Robert E. Willson, Pittston, Pa. 

1835. Nathan R. Chapman, ... Payetteville. 

1836. Daniel Huntington, LL. D., 49 E. 20th Street, New York City. 

1837. Alexander Coburn, Utica.- 

1838. Rev. P. C. Hastings, Ph. D., 165 South Portland Avenue, Brooklyn. 

1839. Addison Muzzey, Ottawa, Kansas. 

1840. Rev, Henry A. Nelson, D. D., 1334 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 

1841. Hon. Augustus L, Rhodes, LL, D,, San Francisco, Cal. 

1842. Rev. Parsons S. Pratt, Dorset, Vt. 

1843. Hon. Anson J. Upson, D. D., LL. D., Glens Palis. 

1844. Rev. David A . Holbrook, Ph. D., Sing Sing. 

1845. Arnon G. Williams, Westmoreland. 

1846. Dwight H. Olmstead, 32 Nassau street. New York City, 

1847. Gen. Emmons Clark, 301 Mott street. New York City. 

1848. Hon. Joseph S. Avery, Clinton. 

1849. Rev. Alfred M, Stowe, Canandaigua. 

1850. Pres. David H. Cochran, Ph. D., LL, D., Polytechnic Institute, Brooklyn. 

1851. Rev. Thomas B. Hudson, D. D., Clinton. 

1852. Hon, Gilbert WiLCOXEN, Seneca Palls. 

1853. Rev, Edward P, Powell, Clmton. 

1854. Rev. Dwight Scovel, Clinton. 

1855. Dr. Henry B. Millard, 4 E. 41st Street, New York City. 

1856*. Edward CuRRAN, Utica. 

1857. Dr. A. Norton Brockway, 50 B. 126th Street, New York City. 

1858. Hon. A. Judd Northrup, Syracuse. 

1859. Charles A. Hawley, Seneca Palls. 

1860. Milton H. Northrup, Horning Courier Office, Syracuse. 

1861 . Hon. Albert L. Childs, Rochester. 

1862. Prof. Charles W. Cole, Ph. D., 354 Hudson Ave., Albany, N. Y. 

1863. Rev. Myron Adams, 9 South Washington Street, Rochester. 

1864. Frank W. Plant, Joliet, 111. 

1865. Hamilton B. Tompkins 229 Broadway, New York City. 

1866. Wilmot E. Burton, , Syracuse, 

1867. Rev. Samuel J. Fisher, D. D., Swissvale, Pa. 

1868. Rev. Henry Randall Waite, Ph. D,, 120 Broadway, New York, 

1869. Prof. William L. Downing, Utica, 

1870. Prof. Henry A, Frink, Ph, D., Amherst College, Amherst, Mass. 

1871. Benjamin Rhodes,.. .. Niagara Falls. 

1872. Edward G. Love, Ph. D , 69 E, 54th Street, New York City. 

1873. John W. O'Brien, Auburn. 

1874. Rev. Edward M. Knox, ^ Kaysville, Davis Co., Utah. 

1875. Rev. Eben B. Cobb, Elizabeth, N. J. 

1876. Rev. Archibald L. Love, St. Louis, Mo, 

1877. William C. McAdam, Duluth, Minn. 

1878*. Rev. George S. Webster, . .107 East 45th Street, New York, N, Y. 

1879. Lotus N. Southworth, Winston Building, Utica, 

1880. Robert J. Knox, St, Paul, Minn, 

1881. Prof. Andrew C. White, Ph. D., 130 East Seneca Street, Ithaca. 

1882. Dr. B. W. Sherwood, 1225 So. Salina Street, Syracuse, N. Y. 

1883. Wm. H. Wilcoxen, Seneca Falls. 

1884. Prof. Joseph A. Adair, Hanover College, Hanover, Ind. 

1885. Rev. William G. White, Cuba, Allegany Co. 

1886. Rev. J. Beveridge Lee, Philadelphia Pa. 

1887. Prof. Arthur M. Seekell, Union Springs. 

1888. Warren D. More, Theological Seminary, Auburn. 

1889. Clarence U. Carruth, Buffalo. 

1890. William L. Phillips, Pulaski City, Va. 

1891. James S. Wilkes, Theoloe-ical Seminary, Auburn. 

1892. Prof. Henry S. Verrill, Park College, Parkville, Mo. 



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